Engine Code

FORD AVG engine (2016–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Ford AVG is a 1,999 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020 as part of the EcoBoost family. It features direct fuel injection, a single-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with Ti-VCT, delivering 140 kW (190 PS) and 300 Nm of torque. Designed for mainstream performance applications, it balances responsive driving dynamics with urban efficiency.

Fitted to models such as the Mondeo (Mk5) and S-MAX, the AVG engine was engineered for drivers seeking a blend of power and practicality. Emissions compliance is achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), enabling Euro 6b and later Euro 6d-TEMP compliance across European markets. Its transverse mounting supports front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, referenced in Ford Service Information Bulletin 17M05. The actuator linkage is prone to binding due to carbon buildup and thermal stress, leading to boost control faults. From 2018, revised actuator materials and updated ECU calibration improved durability in later production units.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2017 meet Euro 6b standards; 2018–2020 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

AVG Technical Specifications

The Ford AVG is a 1,999 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid-size Ford models (2016–2020). It combines direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with real-world drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,999 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke87.5 mm × 83.1 mm
Power output140 kW (190 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque300 Nm @ 1,750–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 250 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6b (2016–2017); Euro 6d-TEMP (2018–2020)
Compression ratio9.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerHoneywell single-scroll turbo with air-to-air intercooler
Timing systemDual roller chain (primary and secondary)
Oil typeFord WSS-M2C949-A (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight130 kg
Practical Implications

The single-scroll turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) oil to prevent turbo bearing wear and chain degradation. The GPF system necessitates regular highway runs to maintain regeneration cycles and prevent clogging. Fuel quality is important—RON 95 unleaded is sufficient, but higher-octane fuel may improve throttle response. Post-2018 models feature revised wastegate actuators and ECU strategies reducing failure rates. Cooling system integrity must be maintained, as sustained high loads can increase thermal stress on hoses and the radiator.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Ford WSS-M2C949-A (5W-30) specification (Ford SIB 15 06 12). Compatible with ACEA C2/C3 classifications.

Emissions: Euro 6b applies to 2016–2017 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6d-TEMP compliance confirmed for 2018–2020 units.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak power achieved at 5,500 rpm with standard exhaust and intake configurations.

Primary Sources

Ford Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B31580, B31920, SIB 15 06 12, SIB 17M05

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

AVG Compatible Models

The Ford AVG was used across Ford's C5 platform with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout. This engine received platform-specific tuning—slightly revised intake manifolds in the S-MAX and enhanced NVH damping in the Mondeo—and from 2018 the updated wastegate actuator and ECU calibration in facelifted models created minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Ford
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Mondeo (Mk5)
Variants:
2.0T EcoBoost 190 PS
View Source
Ford Group PT-2022
Make:
Ford
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
S-MAX
Variants:
2.0T EcoBoost 190 PS
View Source
Ford TIS Doc. B32102
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine identification tag on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS B31701). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine code ('G' for AVG). Pre-2018 units have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2018 models use black valve covers. Critical differentiation: AVG features direct injection with GPF, unlike naturally aspirated units. Service parts require model-year verification—wastegate actuators for 2016–2017 models are not interchangeable with 2018+ due to design revisions (Ford SIB 17M05).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Ford TIS Doc. B31701

Location:

Stamped on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Ford TIS B31701).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2018: Silver valve cover, black intake manifold
  • Post-2018: Black valve cover, revised intake plenum
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Ford SIB 17M05

E C U Calibration:

Post-2018 ECU maps include revised boost control and fuel trims to reduce actuator stress. Swapping ECUs without matching calibration may trigger limp mode.

Wastegate Actuator:

Actuator design was revised in 2018 to reduce carbon binding and improve longevity. Pre-2018 actuators are not recommended for use in post-2018 engines.
GPF Maintenance

Evidence:

Ford SIB 16 03 06

Requirement:

Regular highway driving (minimum 20 minutes above 80 km/h) is required to maintain GPF regeneration cycles and prevent clogging.

Service Caution:

Avoid short-trip driving patterns exclusively, as this accelerates GPF saturation and may lead to forced regeneration or limp mode.

Common Reliability Issues - FORD AVG

The AVG's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, with elevated incidence in urban driving and frequent thermal cycles. Internal Ford field reports from 2019 noted a measurable share of 2016–2017 engines exhibiting boost control faults before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures linked to DTCs in city-driven vehicles. Stop-start usage and low-quality fuel amplify actuator risks, making ECU calibration and maintenance adherence critical.

Turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost fluctuation, over-boost DTCs, reduced throttle response, ECU limp mode.
Cause: Carbon buildup on actuator linkage or diaphragm degradation due to heat exposure over time.
Fix: Clean or replace wastegate actuator per Ford procedure; verify linkage movement and recalibrate boost control.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Increased backpressure, reduced fuel economy, regeneration warnings, DPF-related limp mode.
Cause: Frequent short trips prevent passive regeneration; oil ash and soot accumulate in GPF, restricting exhaust flow.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; replace GPF if saturated. Advise owner to conduct regular highway runs.
Throttle body contamination
Symptoms: Idle speed fluctuations, hesitation on acceleration, throttle response lag, stored throttle position faults.
Cause: Carbon accumulation on throttle plate and bore due to recirculated crankcase vapors and fuel byproducts.
Fix: Clean throttle body with approved solvent; perform ECU adaptation reset after service.
Coolant leak from water pump
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white residue around pump, temperature gauge fluctuations.
Cause: Plastic impeller and housing prone to cracking under thermal cycling; seal degradation over time.
Fix: Replace water pump assembly; inspect thermostat and hoses for secondary damage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Ford technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about FORD AVG

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD AVG.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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